Harlingen CISD discusses flood relief efforts, staff compensation

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District held a special board meeting Tuesday to discuss flood relief efforts, staff compensation and long-term financial planning.

As previously reported by ValleyCentral, Harlingen received some of the most intense flooding and rainfall on March 27.

In response to the city's need to cancel school on Friday, the district approved a resolution to ensure employees would receive regular pay for the canceled day.

Ahead of the special board meeting, the fiscal planning committee met to discuss the district's compensation plan and how to allocate state funds.

Additionally, the committee met to polish its process for software purchases and renewals, which saved the district $1,174,507 for the 2024-2025 school year. Another $98,831 is projected to be saved in the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

Throughout the course of the meetings the Superintendent for the district Veronica Kortan and Board President Greg Powers expressed appreciation for the members of their community who helped and continue to help in recovery efforts for the city.

"I just want our community, our staff, and our employees to know how much we appreciate their incredible commitment over the weekend. Returning to school under such difficult circumstances was not easy," Powers said.

"As soon as the sun came up on Friday morning, calls and emails poured in from people asking how they could help. The priority wasn't just getting schools ready. It was making sure our students and employees were okay," Kortan said.

HCISD's relief efforts continue with its mobile relief unit making stops throughout the community to distribute supplies such as food, clothing, and cleaning products.